Staying Alive Season 1 Episode 3 Should You Actually Drink Your Pee to Survive?
- December 3, 2018
- 50 min
Staying Alive season 1 episode 3 explores the controversial and potentially lifesaving topic of drinking your own urine to survive in a dire situation. Hosts Brett and Stephen travel to the rugged terrain of the Utah desert to test the science and myths surrounding this survival technique. They meet with experts and survivalists who have used urine as a last resort for hydration and examine the potential risks and benefits.
The episode begins with the hosts explaining the circumstances under which drinking your own urine would become an option for survival. They clarify that urine is not a safe and sustainable source of hydration under normal circumstances but recognizing signs of dehydration is crucial in survival situations.
First, the hosts visit a survivalist who has been living off the land for over twenty years. He demonstrates the process of drinking urine and explains that it can be a last resort in a life-threatening situation, but it should not be a primary source of hydration. Brett and Stephen are surprised to hear that urine can be filtered and boiled to increase the safety of the liquid. The expert also emphasizes the importance of recognizing dehydration and that urine should not be consumed unless absolutely necessary.
Next, the hosts meet with a doctor who explains the science behind urine and its potential benefits and risks. The doctor explains that urine is composed of water, salts, and urea and that drinking it can rehydrate the body in some cases. However, urine also contains waste products and toxins that can be harmful if consumed in large amounts. The doctor advises against drinking urine as a primary source of hydration but recognizes that in extreme conditions, it may be the only option.
Brett and Stephen then test the science and efficacy of drinking urine by conducting an experiment in the desert. They go without water for 24 hours and document the changes in their bodies and how various survival techniques affect their physical and mental states. They even attempt to filter and drink their urine to stay hydrated. The experiment shows that drinking urine does provide some hydration but also causes discomfort and nausea. The hosts conclude that while urine can provide hydration in emergencies, the risks and discomfort may not be worth it in most cases.
The show ends with a warning from the hosts and experts that drinking urine should never be a first resort and that recognizing the signs of dehydration and taking preventive measures is crucial in survival situations. They encourage viewers to learn about other survival techniques and to always be prepared for emergencies.
Overall, Staying Alive season 1 episode 3 delves into a taboo topic of using urine for hydration in extreme situations. The hosts provide a balanced perspective by consulting with experts and performing an experiment that outlines both the potential benefits and dangers of drinking urine. The episode is informative and important for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities or may face life-threatening situations.